Dealing with error in spatial databases: a simple case study

Abstract

There is now a considerable body of literature on the techniques available for modeling and communicating error in spatial databases. Some error models have solid statistical foundations, while the basis for others is not so strong. In this paper, three basic approaches to the problem are examined. The application investigated is a fundamental one ― to determine the position of a given terrain elevation value and to portray the resultant error of the answer. Such a problem can be of critical concern to communities in cases of flood plain mapping, determination of rising sea levels resulting from global warming, or delineation of the full supply level for a proposed reservoir. In this instance, the authors suggest that the application of simple probability theory, when combinede with the error estimates supplied by data producers and current computer graphics capabilities, can provide users with more meaningful information concerning the error of their spatial database products. In turn, this information may allow them to better deal with an issue of growing concer

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